In today’s episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we're diving into the tricky standard of analyzing conflicting information. With the overwhelming amount of media that students consume and the need to determine what is credible information, this is a vital skill for them to develop. From understanding conflicting information to identifying shared and conflicting details among texts, evaluating source credibility, and developing critical thinking skills, we'll equip you with the tools you need to help your students become critical thinkers and analyzers of information. Join us as we break down this concept and explore ideas to teach students these skills. Are you enjoying the podcast?Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!  To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

In this Monday Mindset, we revisit a past episode where I explore the power of our surroundings and the impact they have on our lives and mindset. I unpack the concept of surrounding ourselves with “A+ players,” and the profound influence it can have on our personal growth and happiness. Intentionally choosing the company we keep and creating a positive environment for ourselves and our students can impact our lives in a truly positive way. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin

In today's episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we welcome Dr. Rebecca Harper to the podcast and delve into the topic of assessment, especially when it comes to writing. We reflect on the importance of having checkpoints along the way, and we discuss the power of quick writes and how they can be used to improve writing instruction. Listeners will hear about various methods to engage students in reading and writing, and we address the challenges of grading writing, the importance of providing effective feedback, and the value of assessing smaller chunks throughout the teaching process. Join us as we unpack these topics and share practical strategies to enhance your ELA classroom.Are you enjoying the podcast?Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!  To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

Today I dive into the significance of simply being a good person. Your daily acts of kindness can be the reason why people still believe in the beauty of kind hearts and positive energy. Amidst a world sometimes clouded by negativity, your actions can serve as beacons of hope. Never stop being the source of goodness because your kindness has the power to inspire others and make the world a better place. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin

In today’s episode of Teaching Middle School ELA, we have a special treat for you as we dive into the spookiness of Halloween. We understand that the days leading up to Halloween can be a challenge in the classroom, as students are filled with excitement and anticipation. Join us as we guide you through an engaging and standards-aligned lesson called the Haunted Forest Escape Room. This three-class period unit is designed to make your students feel like class is a little more special during this time of year. Best of all, the lessons center around literary analysis, focusing on plot, setting, and characterization. So get ready to embrace the excitement of the season and engage your students in a frightfully fun and educational activity!Are you enjoying the podcast?Tag us on Instagram @ebacademics and let us know which episode you're listening to!Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!Your review helps us reach even more middle school ELA teachers just like you! It would mean so much to us. To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

In today's episode, I discuss the profound concept that our perception of the external world is a reflection of our internal state. Our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs shape how we interpret reality. Our perception, or view of reality, can affect relationships: unresolved emotions can distort interactions, while empathy can enhance connections. When we are aware of our inner world, it can profoundly influence our external experiences. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin

Welcome back to another episode of the Teaching Middle School ELA podcast! In today’s episode, we are thrilled to share a fun and engaging activity inspired by one of our EB Teachers’ Club members, Krystal Wilde. We will be diving into the world of Edgar Allan Poe and playing a game of Two Truths and a Lie to kick off your Poe unit or any literature study. Join us as we dive in for some fun in the classroom and explore the life of Edgar Allan Poe, while challenging our students' critical thinking skills.Are you enjoying the podcast?Tag us on Instagram @ebacademics and let us know which episode you're listening to!Make sure to subscribe to our channel and leave us a review!Your review helps us reach even more middle school ELA teachers just like you! It would mean so much to us. To leave a review in iTunes, click HERE by scrolling down our show page, selecting a star rating, and tapping “Write a review.” Let us know how this podcast is helping you in your ELA classroom!

Today I explore the profound impact of having an accountability partner on your journey to change. When you team up with someone who shares your goals, the behavior you're striving to achieve becomes the norm in your environment. Research shows that being held accountable by a partner significantly boosts motivation and success rates. If you're looking to make lasting changes in your life, finding an accountability partner might be the key to your transformation. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin

In this final episode, the hosts discuss a fun activity to help middle schoolers write effective summaries by eliminating unnecessary details. They also share practical tips for implementing this activity. Additionally, they explore the power of songs in enhancing learning and retention and provide a step-by-step method for teaching effective summaries using the SWBST framework.

In this episode, I encourage listeners to slow down and appreciate the simple, nearly cost-free pleasures in life. By embracing small moments, we can shift our perspective and find happiness in everyday activities, such as enjoying a cup of tea, going for a walk, or reading a book. Ultimately, our life is a collection of these moments, and by cherishing them, we can become more content and grateful everyday. Here’s to another day of living intentionally.Caitlin